Overcoming Your Drug Addiction
A drug addiction is not a sign of weakness and it is not easy to overcome with sheer willpower. Abusing prescription drugs or illegal drugs create changes in the brain that often results in painful symptoms when a person tries to quit. These withdrawal symptoms are often serious enough that the one suffering from them are being forced to relapse. But recovery is possible, and with the right mindset and dedication, you can recover from your addiction.
Once you’ve recognized that you have an addiction, you can follow the steps we’ve laid out below to ensure your complete recovery.
Explore your Recovery Options
One you’ve recognized your addiction and committed to recovery, you should explore the various treatment programs available. Those with minor addictions can opt for an outpatient treatment program that can be scheduled around work or school, while those with more severe addictions owing to prolonged drug use are often advised to go into inpatient rehab or a sober living community, where they can receive treatment for days or months. Partial hospitalization is an option for those who wish to stay home, but also receive treatment for several hours. Each treatment program is different, but often include common elements, such as detoxification, counselling, medication, and follow-ups to maintain long-term sobriety.
When choosing a program, remember that there is no one-size-fits-all treatment. There are underlying issues involved that need to be addressed along with your addiction. The key to full rehabilitation is committing and following through with the treatment program that you chose.
Find Support
Attempting to recover from addiction is an incredibly difficult process that is even harder when done alone. Whatever treatment program you choose, it would be easier to complete it if you have a positive and solid support system in place. This support system may consist of your immediate friends and family, a sober social network, or a recovery support group. If you are unable to move into a sober living home, you can find supprt in local church or civic groups in your community.
Cope with Stress
Several studies, such as this one, has found links between stress and the development of addiction and the likelihood of relapse. Fully recovering from addiction requires facing the problems that led to addiction in the first place. The use of illicit substances can often be caused by the desire to cope with certain emotions and problems. If you want to remain sober for good, it is important to understand that negative emotions are part of one’s daily life, and using banned substances will never offer a lasting solution.
It is also important to keep in mind that once you stop taking drugs, the negative experiences it has been dampening will resurface. You may experience stress, loneliness, anxiety, and other negative emotions again. At this point, you will need to have coping strategies if you want to remain drug-free. Finding relief strategies that do not involved substance abuse, such as exercise or picking up a new hobby like cooking, will help keep you on the right track.
Check your Triggers
Recovery doesn’t end when you leave rehab. At this point, your brain is still attempting to adjust to a life without drugs, and this will take time. This is also the point where drug cravings can be intense. If you want to remain sober, you need to take active steps in order to keep your triggers in check.
If you want to avoid re-activating your cravings, you need to stay away from friends who use and may lead you back to your old life. You will also want to avoid places where drugs are readily available, such as bars and clubs. If you need medical help, you need to be upfront about your history with drug use, so that your physician can recommend an alternative medication. This last advice is particularly important when you previously struggled with opioid abuse.
Relapse is Not Defeat
Relapse is part of the recovery process. Those who deal with it may find it discouraging, but it can also be used as a way to identify triggers and calibrate your treatment. A relapse can differ from person to person and may be triggered by different factors, such as a negative emotional state, physical discomfort, pressure, or a strong craving.
When you find yourself having difficulties dealing with your triggers, all is not lost. A relapse does not mean a failure of treatment, it only means that you need to talk to your therapist, doctor, or support group. After you’ve recovered from a relapse episode, take note of what triggered it and what you could have done differently. You can always use this experience to get strengthen your resolve and get back on your path toward permanent recovery.
Orange County Addiction Rehab
Our treatment programs in Orange County offer a complete treatment program that integrates mental health, substance abuse, and primary care services. We offer detox, both 12-step and SMART recovery groups, and a comprehensive drug treatment program. We are not a one size fits all treatment facility, and this sets us apart from other treatment centers. Our treatment plans in Orange County are customized to each patient’s needs and preferences and are administered by our staff of highly motivated and expert professionals.
We Can Help
We believe and have proven many times that addictions can be effectively and safely treated. Our Orange County Xanax rehab facility offers inpatient and outpatient care for addiction and our aftercare programs ensure that you have the tools you need to maintain sobriety when the formal treatment is through. We can help you find the recovery you’ve been looking for, and all you need to begin is call. Contact us to find out more about how we can help you take back your life from addiction.
